Base Fire Department to test hydrants

  • Published
  • By Jeffrey Kitzmiller
  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Fire Department
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Firefighters here will perform annual flow tests and inspect all fire hydrants during the month of September.

The mandatory testing will be phased by area and housing complex and will take place between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Base personnel can expect some slight water discoloration and pressure fluctuations during the test period due to the flushing and increased demand on the water distribution system.

Hydrant testing in Areas A, C and Kittyhawk Center will run Sept. 10-14, with make up dates Sept. 17-21. Testing for Pine Estates, Green Acres and Brick Quarters housing areas will also run Sept. 10-14 with make-up date of Sept. 17-21. Area B testing, as well as Prairies and the Woods housing areas is planned Sept. 3-7 with make-up dates of Sept. 10-14.

"The inspections and tests are required to determine the water flow available for fire fighting at various locations within the water distribution system," said Glenn Eaton, Deputy Fire Chief. "By measuring the flow from hydrants and recording the pressures corresponding to this flow, the number of gallons available at any pressure or the pressure available at any flow can be determined through calculations or graphical analysis," Chief Eaton explained.

Another important reason for the annual tests is to allow fire crews to visually inspect and operate hydrants to determine whether they are fully functional or in need of maintenance. "Occasionally we will come upon a hydrant with a bad drain valve that could freeze up during the winter and thereby spell disaster for firefighters and those who are depending on them to put out the fire," Chief Eaton continued.

During the tests motorists should be on the lookout for fire department personnel operating hydrants and walking near the roadway. Base residents and employees should not park or drive closely to hydrants and be especially alert if firefighters or equipment are observed.

Base housing and dormitory residents should refrain from using washing machines during designated test hours. Discoloration caused by the natural sediment being stirred up in the water mains may appear, presenting a cloudiness or rusty appearance. This sediment is not harmful, but may be minimized by running your water faucets, especially after periods of decreased use. Residents may also want to run their washing machines for approximately half a cycle without clothes after flushing is complete to keep clothes from becoming stained.

Bioenvironmental Engineering personnel plan to perform random sampling to ensure that the water meets acceptable drinking standards.

Chief Eaton added that firefighters use the experience to get reacquainted with water distribution system layout and conduct pre-fire planning surveys during the tests.

"Our folks really receive valuable training in facility location and design, street layout and fire protection systems by doing the tests. Base residents and workers should take some comfort in knowing that fire department personnel are updating plans and methods."

For more information call a fire prevention specialist at 257-4075 during normal duty hours.